Bulgaria Tops EU as Most Affordable Country in 2024, Eurostat Data Shows
Sofia, The Gulf Observer: In 2024, Bulgaria emerged as the most affordable country in the European Union across several major consumer spending categories, according to the latest Eurostat data analyzed by Forbes Bulgaria. The price level index, based on purchasing power parity (PPS), places Bulgaria’s overall price level at just 60% of the EU average — the lowest among all member states.
Denmark recorded the highest overall prices at 143%, followed by Ireland at 138% and Luxembourg at 133%. Bulgaria also reported the lowest prices for alcoholic beverages and tobacco at 69%, while Ireland topped the list with a staggering 205%.
The sharpest contrast was observed in the restaurants and hotels sector, where Bulgaria’s prices stand at only 53% of the EU average, well below Hungary (62%) and Romania (65%). Denmark again led with the highest prices in this category at 148%.
In clothing, Bulgaria had the lowest index at 79%, followed by Hungary and Romania at 85%. The highest prices were recorded in Denmark (133%), Sweden, and Finland (120%).
The data highlights Bulgaria’s widening affordability gap in key sectors such as hospitality and tourism, offering advantages for visitors and easing household expenses, though lower prices may also reflect lower income levels and consumption standards.
